Australia will formally recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations
General Assembly in September.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Monday, joining a
growing list of nations moving in that direction amid renewed global debate
over the Middle East conflict.
Framing the decision as part of a coordinated global effort building
momentum for a two-state solution, Albanese said Canberra’s recognition
is contingent on commitments from the Palestinian Authority.
The Prime Minister said a two-state solution is humanity’s best hope to
break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and to bring an end to the
conflict, suffering and starvation in Gaza.
The announcement marks a swift reversal from just two weeks ago, when
Albanese publicly dismissed any imminent move.
It also follows recognition announcements in May by France, Spain,
Norway, and Ireland, decisions that triggered criticism from Jerusalem.
The United Kingdom has signaled it may follow suit, while New Zealand
says it will decide in September.
The shift in Canberra comes after weeks of domestic and diplomatic
pressure, including a mass pro-Palestinian march across the Sydney
Harbour Bridge and calls from within Albanese’s own cabinet.
